Holy Roman Empress? – Maria Theresa’s Fight for Her Empire
In October of 1740, Charles VI, Holy Roman Emperor, died. Charles had spent most of his life at war, first over the succession to the…
How the “Other” Ewell Brother Helped Saved Richmond
The 16th President of the College of William and Mary, Benjamin Stoddert Ewell was a civil engineer who served in the Confederate Army. His ingenuity…
Respecting Our Soldiers – How Vietnam Changed U.S. Perceptions of War at Home
When we think of war, many of us envision images of their fellow citizens suffering. We think of soldiers who are hurt or killed overseas. …
Crusades – More Peace than War?
Typically, it can be said that the winners get to determine how history is told. In the case of the Crusades, however, that hasn’t been…
Ally Turned Foe – The Failed Hunt for Pancho Villa
In the wee hours of 9th March 1916, the city of Columbus, New Mexico lurched to wakefulness as the grounds shuddered under the aggressive march…
The War That Humiliated China
During the 19th century, China was struggling to maintain its imperial dynasties that had ruled for over three hundred years. The Qing dynasty, established in…
Ani Pachen – Tibetan Joan of Arc
While some call her ‘the Warrior Nun of Tibet’, others call her the ‘Tibetan Joan of Arc.’ Either way, Ani Pachen’s name will never fade…
A Stonewall Before Bull Run: Jackson in Mexico
Though his participation was cut short, Rebel General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson proved a skilled tactician and trusted compatriot of fellow Rebel Robert E. Lee. Like…
Was Hugo Boss Hitler’s Tailor?
Not long ago at a function arranged by GQ magazine and sponsored by Hugo Boss, British comedian Russell Brand goose-stepped onto the stage and told…
Battle of Atlanta – McPherson’s Meteoric Rise and Fall
James Birdseye McPherson began his career after graduating first in his class from the United States Military College in 1853, a class that included Philip…
Dust Means Death: Behind the Front Lines After D-Day
Following the D-Day landings of June 1944, the Allies poured troops into Normandy. By the 25th of July, they had 1,450,000 soldiers ashore in France,…
Adopting New Tactics – The Battle of Carillon
Usually when we think of battles that are turning points of war, we think of close contests, hard-fought by dedicated and honorable men who take…